The reigning WBC and WBO World Champion will defend her unified titles and fight for the vacant WBA Heavyweight World title against undefeated contender Danielle Perkins on Sunday, February 2 at Dort Financial Center in Shields’ hometown of Flint, Mich(DAZN).
Shields (15-0, 3 KOs) won the WBC heavyweight green belt (and the vacant WBO Lt Heavyweight belt) in July when she knocked out defending champion Vanessa Lepage Joanisse. In addition, she is also the current, reigning Unified Middleweight World Champion.
Furthermore, she is the subject of an upcoming theatrical film chronicling her incredible life story. The highly anticipated biographical drama THE FIRE INSIDE premieres in theatres on Christmas Day.
“I feel so blessed at this point in my life and my career,” said Shields. But make no mistake, every blessing came with blood, sweat, and tears behind it. My home in Flint helped make me the person I am today. That city, with all its struggles and strengths, built something in me that can’t be broken. Without Flint and the determination I developed there at a young age, I don’t know if I’d be here today. I can’t wait for this homecoming event. Danielle Perkins is undefeated and a strong contender, but I’ve been fighting my whole life, not just in the ring. Whether it was in my personal life, in the amateur boxing ring, or as a professional world champion, I simply do not fail. February 2nd will be no different.”
Born and raised in Brooklyn, Perkins (5-0, 2 KOs), like her upcoming opponent, is a decorated amateur and a survivor.
Before winning gold at the 2019 IBA Women’s World Championships and defeating the tournament’s top seed in the finals, Perkins saw success outside of boxing. A former collegiate basketball standout at St. John’s University, standing 6-feet tall and 200 pounds, Perkins boasted a successful professional basketball career in Europe. That was until Perkins sustained severe injuries when struck by a car on a busy city street in Brooklyn. While unsure if she would ever walk again, Perkins’ undeniable pursuit for greatness drove her to a full recovery and, ultimately, to the sport of boxing.
Perkins earned the WBC No. 1-ranked, mandatory position with a unanimous-decision win over Christianne Fahey on the undercard of Shields vs. Joanisse in July. Known for her power and technique, she has made a name for herself with an unblemished record and relentless drive to claim a world title.
“I am more than excited to get in ring with one of the best fighters in the world,” said Perkins. “I am looking forward to showcasing my skillset to the world and winning my second, third and fourth title belts in Flint. I won the WBC Silver belt there in 2020 and I coming back to make another statement.”
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